The Swiss collector Nicola Erni is a very private person. Over more than 25 years, she has quietly built one of the world’s largest private photography collections. Largely focusing on images from the 1960s and 70s, she has also amassed fashion photography from artists like Helmut Newton, Mario Testino and Annie Leibovitz. Erni’s contemporary art collection is nothing to scoff at either—she owns important works by Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol. Much of her art is housed at the Nicola Erni Collection, a private museum in Zug.
The Art Newspaper: What was your most nerve-wracking experience buying a work of art?
Nicola Erni: The moment I could acquire Warhol’s Sixty Last Suppers (1986) is one I certainly will not forget. This masterpiece I had been aspiring to add to my collection was not an easy one to get. Word that other collectors wanted it as badly as I did gave me sleepless nights but, in the end, getting this monumental work left me with tears of joy and made me happier than ever. Right now, I am lending it to Fondation Beyeler, where it hangs prominently. I am very grateful for that.
How quickly do you decide to buy a work of art?
First and foremost, the works I add to my collection of photography and contemporary art need to speak to my heart, as I often say, and give me goosebumps. When that is the case, I sometimes reflect one night, and if the next morning the work is still on my mind, I start the conversation regarding the final price.
The reaction (cable) ferry across the Rhine is a great way to see the city David Taljat
What do you regret not buying when you had the chance?
A collaboration between Basquiat and Warhol that came up for auction in New York. Because of the time difference, I decided to only leave a written bid and not be woken in the middle of the night. That was a mistake. In the end, I was the underbidder, and what was more frustrating is the work sold at a reasonable price.
If you could have any work from any museum, what would it be?
Cy Twombly is an artist who fascinates me. Not only the six monumental Roses paintings (2008), but also the Lepanto Cycle (2001) of 12 large-size canvases at Museum Brandhorst in Munich are always worth a visit.
Do you have any parties lined up?
No parties for me in Basel, but I will be celebrating the new exhibition at the Nicola Erni Collection: Mix & Match: Fashion Photography Meets Contemporary Art. We already gave a sneak preview to guests at Zurich Art Weekend. An extensive accompanying book will be published by Phaidon Press in early autumn.
What’s your least favourite thing about art fairs?
I am not very fond of crowds, so that is certainly one of the main challenges I face during Art Basel.
What tip would you give to someone visiting Basel for the first time?
From Messe Basel, take the Münsterfähre (a classic reaction ferry) to cross the Rhine to the old town for the best view of Basel’s cathedral and surroundings. Around Münsterplatz and its neighbouring streets, you will find an incredible concentration of great museums. This year, close to the Kunstmuseum Basel on Rittergasse, I cannot wait to discover Basel Social Club, located in a former private bank. And do not forget to stop by Fondation Beyeler in Riehen.
